Understanding Air Pollution

What is air pollution?

• The increase of oxygen levels in the atmosphere.

• The contamination of air by harmful substances including gases and smoke.

• The presence of only natural gases in the air.

• The reduction of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

What causes photochemical smog?

• The mixing of water vapor and dust.

• The presence of too much oxygen in the air.

• The burning of wood in forests.

• The reaction of nitrogen and carbon compounds in sunlight.

What is a major component of smog?

• Ozone close to Earth's surface.

• Water vapor.

• Carbon dioxide.

• Nitrogen gas.

What effect do CFCs have on the ozone layer?

• They have no effect on the ozone layer.

• They increase the thickness of the ozone layer.

• They create more ozone molecules.

• They destroy ozone molecules, making the ozone layer thinner.

What is particulate matter?

• A mix of both solid and liquid particles in the air.

• Only liquid particles in the air.

• Only solid particles in the air.

• A type of gas found in the atmosphere.

What is acid precipitation?

• Snow that melts quickly.

• Rain with a higher pH than normal rainwater.

• Rain or snow with a lower pH than normal rainwater.

• Normal rainwater with a pH of 7.

What is the purpose of the Montreal Protocol?

• To promote the use of coal.

• To increase the use of fossil fuels.

• To reduce the use of CFCs.

• To ban the use of solar panels.

What does the Clean Air Act aim to do?

• Increase the amount of carbon monoxide in the air.

• Encourage the burning of fossil fuels.

• Promote the use of CFCs.

• Set limits on the amount of certain pollutants released into the air.

How can individuals help reduce air pollution?

• By increasing the use of CFCs.

• By cutting down more trees.

• By using more fossil fuels.

• By using renewable energy resources and energy-efficient appliances.

Why aren't more people using technologies like solar panels?

• Because of the expense and suitability to a particular area.

• Because they are banned in most countries.

• Because they are not effective.

• Because they increase pollution.